More by Shannon

New York City-based food and still life photographer Sarah Anne Ward‘s latest side project will simultaneously fill you with hunger and delight. With a background in art history and an undeniable sweet tooth, Ward, in collaboration with food stylists Heather Meldrom and Michelle Gatton, has managed to merge the wonderful worlds of junk food and fine art. The result? You’ll never look at a Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog or Twinkie the same way again.

“I am not really sure what sparked this idea, I just love food and art. The idea of a perfect day off for me is going to a museum or gallery, drinking good wine and having a good meal with a close friend! In photo school they always told us to shoot what you love, so I am!”

“The biggest challenge thus far is making it recognizable. I often eat alone and see random things in my food, but that does not always translate to a general audience – which is what I am trying to do here. It’s about combining a little nostalgia with art history. The project is also so much about the collaboration with food stylist, another one of my favorite parts of the process. As I chat and brainstorm with the stylist we combine both ideas to perfect each dessert.”

“It really depends on the piece. Some are much easier than others, and most of the time is spent in preparation of, or testing before the actual shoot. There are always many chains of emails and inspiration ideas sent between the stylist and me before we finalize. Shooting is usually the easy part!”